Speaker Vos: “No doubt” lame duck session was constitutional

MADISON (WKOW) — Three groups and three individuals have filed a lawsuit challenging all of the new laws that limit the powers of the governor and attorney general.

The League of Women Voters, Disability Rights Wisconsin, Black Leaders Organizing for Communities and three voters all signed onto a lawsuit challenging the lame duck session was unconstitutional because the legislature “lacked legal authority to convene.”

It argues the state’s constitution only allows the legislature to meet “at such a time as provided by law” or in a “special session.” The plaintiffs argue the session last month did not comply with either situation.

Assembly Speaker Robin Vos said he is confident his party followed the law.

“Absolutely, positively, no doubt what the legislature did is constitutional because we have the right to convene ourselves in extraordinary session,” said Vos.

The lawsuit was filed in Dane County Circut Court on Thursday.

These types of extraordinary session are typical in Wisconsin. Speaker Vos and other Republican leaders believe the court will rule the session was constitutional. Vos noted a similar circumstance was filed in the court challenging lawmakers actions during the passage of Act 10.

“The dates that we set are actually determined by the legislature and have been since statehood,” he said. “Just like individuals filed a lawsuit talking about open record law during Act 10, the Supreme Court said the legislature has it’s right to set its own rules.”

Governor Evers’ spokesperson said the governor expected these types of legal challenges and will consult with his attorney regarding his next move.